PARIS — Coco Gauff showcased not only her physical talent but also her growing mental resilience as she clinched her first French Open singles title on Sunday. The 21-year-old American rallied from a set down to defeat world number one Aryna Sabalenka 6-7 (5-7), 6-2, 6-4 in a thrilling final at Roland Garros.
Meanwhile, this victory marks Gauff’s second Grand Slam singles title, following her breakthrough win at the 2023 US Open, also against Sabalenka. But beyond the trophies, Coco Gauff emphasised the role of mindset in her continued rise.
“I’ve always had a fighting spirit,” Gauff said after the match, “but learning to stay positive and reset mentally has changed my game.” She credited this evolving mental approach as a key factor in her ability to stay focused and bounce back during tough moments on court.
Moreover, Coco Gauff named American track and field star Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone as a major source of inspiration. She praised McLaughlin-Levrone’s discipline, composure, and focus. Qualities she strives to embody in her career.
“Sydney’s calmness and dedication resonate with me,” Gauff explained. She also mentioned gymnastics legend Simone Biles, highlighting the importance of mental strength across sports.
Coco Gauff’s Rise: From Tennis Prodigy to Grand Slam Champion
Coco Gauff, born Cori Dionne Gauff on March 13, 2004, in Atlanta, Georgia, began playing tennis at age six. Her athletic roots run deep—her father, Corey, played college basketball at Georgia State University, and her mother, Candi, competed in track and field at Florida State University.
However, in order to nurture her talent, Gauff’s family moved to Delray Beach, Florida, when she was seven, allowing her to train intensively.
Coco Gauff Overcomes Aryna Sabalenka
There, her mother homeschooled her, while her father became her primary coach despite limited tennis experience. At ten, Coco Gauff joined the prestigious Mouratoglou Tennis Academy in France, where she impressed coach Patrick Mouratoglou with her determination and fighting spirit.
Gauff’s breakthrough came in 2019 at Wimbledon, where, as a 15-year-old qualifier, she stunned the world by defeating Venus Williams. Since then, she has rapidly climbed the ranks, winning multiple WTA titles, including the 2023 US Open and 2025 French Open.
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Her journey reflects a blend of natural talent, relentless work ethic, and strong family support that continues to propel her to the top of women’s tennis.
Moreover, Gauff’s triumph at Roland Garros signals her emergence as one of tennis’s brightest young stars. Her focus on positivity and drawing strength from athletes beyond tennis suggests a maturity that could serve her well in the years ahead.
